Prague was the first of the five cities I visited during the post-college graduation Euro-trip I speak so often (and fondly) of. Unlike many European cities where Renaissance Era structures were lost or compromised by the First and Second World Wars, Prague's medieval architecture is prevalent throughout the city and delightfully preserved.

The metropolis's iconic red roofs, narrow cobblestone streets, walking bridges, and wildly expressive bronze sculptures are just some of the reasons why many refer to it as a fairy tale city. These old world details combined with a 20th century Art Nouveau influence make the city oh so freakin' pretty.

And as contemporary art and modern photography scenes flourish in Prague, the city continues to be home to a whimsical contrast of old and new. Affordable and probably more foreign-feeling than any other European city I've visited, Prague is most definitely a must-see for any twenty-something.

Do/See

There are lots of tourist traps in Prague and pickpocketing is certainly prevalent, so be extra mindful of your security when walking around. The funicular to Petrin Tower and Prague Castle, though highly trafficked areas, are as such for a good reason. Be sure to hit these up early on in your trip then spend some time at these other must-sees:

Kafka Museum and Mucha Museum: for intimate snapshots of two of the city's important turn-of-the-century contemporaries.

La Gallery Novesta: I'm not a huge proponent of shopping while abroad – I think money is better spent on experience – however the US dollar goes a long way in the Czech Republic, so it's a great place to indulge. La Gallery Novesta spotlights up-and-coming Czech designers providing extra unique duds to bring back.

Eat

Czech cuisine is meat-heavy and generous with the fried, pickled, drenched-in-cream-sauce sides. And, we're perfectly OK with this. Some spots to get your grub on:

Bredovsky Dvur: another classic Czech spot with in an underground, vault-style space.

Sansho: for some really fun, modern interpretations of pan-Asian cuisine.

Drink/Nightlife

I will say, that I found that nightlife in Prague wasn't the friendliest towards single women. So my recommendation is to grab a late-evening cocktail at one of these youthful, but less clubby (i.e. less creepy) spots: